TALKING POINTS: What can we expect in Liverpool's Capital One Cup tie with Chelsea?

The tie throws up memories of several blockbuster clashes between the duo in the 'noughties' as the Premier League heavyweights clashed both domestically and in Europe.

And ahead of tonight's tie, Starsport has taken a look at five key talking points.

WHO WILL WIN THE TACTICAL BATTLE?

Jose Mourinho has been streets ahead in previous meetings when it comes to a winning game plan - none more so than in last season's clash at Anfield where Chelsea's 2-0 win ruined Liverpool's title dreams.

Brendan Rodgers needs to devise a way to compete while still retaining attacking drive but not at the expense of leaving the back door open.

DUEL: Gerrard and Terry clash once again at Anfield tonight [GETTY/ AFP]

WHAT ABOUT STEVEN GERRARD?

Critics have suggested the midfield loses its dynamism when the long-serving captain is at its centre but his experience may be key over two legs.

He remains a threat at set-pieces and his ability to pick a pass is still there but he cannot afford to by over-run by livelier opponents.

CAN RAHEEM STERLING SUCCEED AS A STRIKER AGAINST CHELSEA'S TOUGH DEFENCE?

Sterling is likely to play centrally again but he is far from a natural finisher, as he showed at Aston Villa at the weekend.

His pace and movement will be a problem for John Terry and Gary Cahill but only if Liverpool can find a way of releasing him into space.

IS LIVERPOOL'S DEFENCE A MATCH FOR DIEGO COSTA?

Whatever system Rodgers has employed, Liverpool have always looked vulnerable at set-pieces and even bottom side Leicester managed to score twice at Anfield recently.

The current back three have kept two consecutive clean sheets but Costa, with 17 goals this season, presents an altogether different threat and of the two options, a goal for him seems more likely.

WHO IS MORE IMPORTANT FOR CHELSEA, CESC FABREGAS OR NEMANJA MATIC?

Away from home, probably Matic. The Serbia international does the dirty work so others don't have to and presents such a formidable barrier that you suspect if Liverpool's forwards have to feed off scraps, it will largely be down to him.